Smith & Wesson 642 PC .38 Special Revolver - Compact Precision Defense
The Smith & Wesson 642 PC .38 Special Revolver - Compact Precision Defense is a .38 Special double action revolvers from Smith & Wesson. It is available from 16 vendors at $499.99 to $674.99.
Product Information
Name: Smith & Wesson 642 PC .38 Special Revolver - Compact Precision Defense
Brand: Smith & Wesson
Category: Double Action Revolvers
Caliber: .38 Special
Barrel Length: 1.9"
Capacity: 5 rounds
UPC: 022188866360
SKU: UCODeDlI
Description
The Smith & Wesson Performance Center Model 642 is a 5-shot .38 Special +P double-action-only revolver built around a compact, subcompact frame suited for concealed carry and personal defense. It weighs 15 oz (1.2 lbs) with a 1.9-inch barrel and overall length of 6.3 inches. The Performance Center tuned action delivers a smoother, more consistent trigger pull than the standard 642.
Key Specifications
- Brand: Smith & Wesson
- Model: 642 Performance Center
- Caliber: .38 Special +P
- Action Type: Double Action Only (DAO)
- Capacity: 5 Rounds
- Barrel Length: 1.9 inches
- Overall Length: 6.3 inches
- Weight: 1.2 lbs (15 oz)
- Sights: Integral Front / Fixed Rear
- Grip Material: Synthetic with Wood Inserts
- Finish Type: Matte Silver - Two Tone
Features
- Performance Center tuned action for improved trigger pull consistency
- Lightweight frame at 15 oz for extended carry comfort
- Synthetic grip with wood inserts for control during shooting
- Moon clip compatible cylinder for faster reloads
- Durable materials suited for varied environmental conditions
The 642 suits those who want a no-snag, lightweight .38 for everyday carry or as a backup, and its five-shot cylinder keeps the frame thin.
Complete Specifications
| Caliber | .38 Special |
| Model | 642 |
| Capacity | 5 rounds |
| Magazines included | 0 |
| Barrel length | 1.9" |
| Overall length | 6.31" |
| Weight | 15 oz |
| Action | Double Action |
| Finish | STAINLESS STEEL |
| Frame material | Aluminum |
| Color | Matte Stainless Finish, Two-Tone |
| Stock material | Custom Synthetic Grip With Wood Inserts |
| Sights | Fixed |
Frequently Asked Questions
What caliber is the 642?
The 642 is chambered in .38 Special +P.
Who makes the 642?
Smith & Wesson makes the 642.
What type of firearm is the 642?
It is a double-action-only revolver on a compact frame.
What is the barrel length of the 642?
The 642 has a 1.875-inch barrel.
How many rounds does the 642 hold?
It has a 5-round cylinder.
Is the 642 a Performance Center model?
Yes, this is the Performance Center Model 642, which has a tuned action for a smoother, more consistent trigger pull compared to the standard 642.
Where can I buy the 642?
Compare current vendor offers on this page.
What Reviewers Say
Quoted verbatim from YouTube reviews. Each link opens the video at the moment quoted.
10 pounds 7.1 ounces and because of the heavy trigger pull this is really not suited for those who have little experience shooting.
Even though it's very small, it's just very shootable.
I've carried this the last week for pocket carry while working and it's been absolutely awesome it does come with its negatives though.
One of the big things about a small revolver is that they're very reliable with that double action trigger pull i mean when you pull that trigger it'll fire unless you have some kind of problem with the ammo.
These grips honestly are very comfortable they're the rubberized cushiony grips and i really like these grips.
Customers Say
AI-generated insights derived from customer reviews and discussions on popular gun-enthusiast forums.
The S&W 642 PC gets consistent praise for its compact dimensions and suitability for daily carry. The lightweight build comes up frequently as a practical advantage. Reliability is a common talking point; many owners trust revolvers for their mechanical simplicity over semi-autos in a defensive role.
The double-action trigger is described as manageable by most users, including newer shooters. The .38 Special cartridge is appreciated for the balance between recoil and stopping power. Accuracy at short defensive distances is generally rated as satisfactory, though some note that a snub-nosed carry gun rewards regular practice to shoot well. Recoil can feel snappy with +P loads, and a few users opt for lighter standard-pressure loads for range work. Pricing draws mixed opinions, with some feeling it sits high relative to comparable revolvers.
Where to Buy - 17 Offers Available
Price Range: $499.99 - $674.99
| Vendor | Price | Condition | Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Guns Com | $499.99 | Used | Buy Now |
| Brownells | $559.99 | New | Buy Now |
| Ar 15 Discounts Com | $580.75 | New | Buy Now |
| Impactguns Com | $599.99 | New | Buy Now |
| Gritrsports Com | $615.99 | New | Buy Now |
| Shootingsurplus Com | $616.6 | New | Buy Now |
| Kygunco Com | $624.89 | New | Buy Now |
